Join Sinn Féin’s grassroots online community of activists and supporters who are dedicated to the reunification of Ireland and to building a new republic founded on the principles of justice and equality for all.

The leadership of Óglaigh na hÉireann announced on July 28 that we had authorised a representative to engage with the IICD to complete the process to verifiably put arms beyond use. The IRA leadership can now confirm that the process of putting our arms beyond use has been completed.

Following our investigation the IRA leadership, along with the leadership of the Belfast Command, initiated disciplinary proceedings through Court Martial. This was in accordance with IRA Standing Orders. These proceedings were directed only against IRA volunteers. The outcome of the Courts Martial include the dismissal of three volunteers, two of whom were high ranking Volunteers.

In a statement this evening the IRA said: "The leadership of the IRA honoured our commitments. Others have not fulfilled theirs. This is totally unacceptable. When we give our word we keep it. We expect others to do the same. Until they do so there can be little prospect of progress on the issues they profess concern about."

Following the recovery and confirmation of the identity of the remains of Jean McConville we would like to take this opportunity to state our position in relation to those killed and buried by the IRA.

The IRA has released a groundbreaking statement welcoming the speech made by Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams this morning, 21 October 2003 saying it accurately reflects their position. The statement, as printed by BBC, is as follows.

The North's peace process has gathered fresh momentum with the IRA confirming a new move over weapons. In a second statement today, the IRA leadership confirmed that more weapons had been put beyond use.

The IRA leadership announce on 8th March 2001 that they are to enter into further discussions with the IICD. They said that for this engagement to be successful, the British government must deliver on its obligations.